SHAPING THE FUTURE – WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Group of people standing outdoors, raising sticks in the air and smiling

 

Written by Rebecca Marjoram, Communications Technologist

 

You’ve probably seen some posts on our social media accounts or blurbs on our e-newsletter about Shaping the Future, but what exactly is it and what can you expect when you go?

 

A CONFERENCE FOR HEALTH CHAMPIONS

Now in its 11th year, Shaping the Future is a Comprehensive School Health (CSH) conference that brings together educators, health and wellness professionals and researchers for two days to learn, share and grow. There are a variety of sessions geared towards everyone, from CSH newbies to seasoned experts (if you consider yourself an expert, come talk to us about presenting next year!). Check out the skeleton agenda for a brief overview of sessions or view the conference app for a more in-depth look at concurrent session and workshop descriptions.

 

THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD THIS YEAR

We’ve got an incredible lineup of keynote speakers, including award-winning journalist Tanya Talaga, award-winning playwright (and much more) Elena (Eli) Belyea, a panel of health champions from post-secondary institutions across Alberta, and some amazing high school student leaders from the In Good Health YYC program. On top of that, we’ve got concurrent sessions that cover a HUGE range of health topics – sleep promotion, Indigenous language and culture, teacher well-being, inclusion, tobacco and vaping use, concussions, walking school buses, skating, snowshoeing and so much more! If you’re looking at diving deeper into particular topics, we’ve got you covered – Friday is dedicated to workshops, which are two-hour blocks for you to really sink your teeth into CSH topics.

Aside from all the great sessions, we also offer wellness opportunities in the form of morning yoga, run & walks, and meditation; plus, an afternoon wellness break where you can take in all the beauty of Lake Louise. Looking for networking and social time? Friday evening is time for us to all celebrate together at the banquet dinner followed by dancing!

 

TIPS AND TRICKS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE

  • Interested in taking part in the outdoor sessions? Make sure you bring winter clothing! You can also bring your own gear for things like snowshoeing, skating, skiing, etc., or rent gear from the Fairmont.
  • Stick around for door prizes! Saturday at lunch the door prizes are announced and you have to be present to win. Last year we gave away a FitDesk from Gopher Sport (!!!!), along with tons of other awesome prizes.
  • Choose a few “sustainable moments” in the program that you really want to get and make it happen: check out that fun outdoor session, connect with that person you’ve only ever communicated with over email, and remember to find the joy.
  • Check out the Fairmont’s Winter Activity Guide for some great activity ideas during wellness breaks: https://bit.ly/2X1cXLP

 

Interested in registering for Shaping the Future, or want more details? Check out the conference webpage and read our Insider’s Guide for FAQ’s and helpful information.

 

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